The Director General Inter-Services Public Relations (DG ISPR) has highlighted the sacrifices made by the armed forces in combating terrorism and emphasized the need for national solidarity against both militant groups and “digital terrorists.” Addressing a press conference in Rawalpindi, DG ISPR stated that the threat of “digital terrorism” on social media is growing and called for a unified stand against these threats.
Lieutenant General Chaudhry criticized the politicization of significant issues, citing the example of the Azm-e-Istehkam campaign. He clarified that Azm-e-Istehkam is a broad anti-terrorism initiative, not merely a military operation, despite its portrayal. The DG ISPR recalled that an Apex Committee meeting on June 22 established a national consensus on anti-terrorism policy. He reassured that there would be no new no-go areas or displacements related to the campaign.
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He responded to criticism of Azm-e-Istehkam, asserting that there is a concerted effort by political and illegal factions to undermine its objectives. He pointed out that the campaign is being unfairly made controversial and stressed that this opposition is part of a larger political strategy.
Providing operational details, the DG ISPR reported that the army conducts four to five operations per hour, totaling 22,409 intelligence-based operations this year. These efforts have resulted in 31 high-value targets being eliminated, with 137 military personnel losing their lives. He noted the necessity for government-supported reconstruction in cleared areas to prevent terrorist re-emergence, warning that failure to do so could perpetuate a cycle of violence and undermine the campaign’s success.
What occurred in Bannu?
During the press conference, he reported that on July 15, eight military personnel lost their lives in combat and managed to eliminate “all terrorists.” He highlighted the bravery of Sepoy Saqib, who sacrificed himself by jumping on a grenade to protect others.
The following day, Bannu saw a peace march where some participants, including armed individuals, voiced their desire for peace. However, the demonstration turned violent; attendees broke an under-construction wall and looted a supply depot. Armed participants fired shots, resulting in one death and several injuries.
The DG ISPR explained that during such events, the army follows a standard operating procedure (SOP), which starts with issuing a warning before taking action. He clarified that managing mobs is the responsibility of the provincial government, not the army. While people have the right to peaceful protests, the spokesperson emphasized that demonstrations should focus on opposing terrorism.
Footage from the Bannu incident was shown, revealing the presence of armed personnel. The spokesperson criticized the way social media reacted to the incident, suggesting that digital platforms are supporting ground-level terrorism.
Leaked Audio of TTP leader
When asked about Pakistan’s response to the leaked audio of Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) Chief Noor Wali Mehsud, officials confirmed that they are actively investigating the issue.
Sources told that the government plans to request the extradition of terrorists from Afghanistan and will formally protest to the Afghan Taliban-led interim administration about Mehsud’s presence in Afghanistan and his involvement in attacks on Pakistan.
The leaked phone call features Mehsud instructing his followers to carry out attacks within Pakistan. The other voices identified in the call belong to local commanders Ahmad Hussain Mehsud, also known as Ghat Haji, and Saqib Gandapur.
The conversation reveals Mehsud’s orders on escalating security issues in Pakistan, including strategies for disrupting peace. During the call, he directs his men to target hospitals and schools. The Lt Gen noted that while Mehsud gives these orders, he does not take responsibility for his actions, reflecting a lack of courage.
TLP sit-in
Regarding the recent sit-in by Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP), he informed journalists that the government and institutions are working to address the situation with sensitivity and respect for public emotions, given its connection to the Palestinian issue.
He dismissed any claims of the establishment’s involvement in the sit-in, noting that similar accusations would arise if Jamaat-e-Islami organized a sit-in in Islamabad. He criticized the spread of misinformation, stating that the peaceful clearance of the protest area led to unfounded rumors about external influences.
The military spokesperson emphasized that both the army and government have a firm position on the Palestinian crisis, condemning the ongoing genocide in Gaza. He highlighted the military’s support by mentioning the delivery of 1,118 tonnes of aid to Gaza and reaffirmed their commitment to supporting the oppressed Palestinians.
According to the Gaza health ministry, since the Israeli military offensive began on October 7, at least 39,006 Palestinians have been killed and 89,818 injured.
